Why choose Dublin? Here are our top 3 reasons!

Live music

Dublin is known for its fantastic music scene with live music played even in the smallest bars and people from all over the world coming to see gigs. Traditional Irish folk music might come to mind first when thinking of Dublin, but it is easy to see quality gigs from any genre in this city. 

If you want to see Irish music though, your best bet is in the traditional pubs. O'Donoghue's, O'Neill's and Oliver St John Gogarty are some of the gems you should visit. Some of the pubs might even have some dancing or the crowds joining in on singing. The atmosphere really is something everyone should experience. 

Dublin is also great for jazz fans. Some of the spots you might want to check out include Arthur's Jazz & Blues Pub, where you can also have a bite to eat, and Big Romance, that also has a some delicious cocktails and pizza. 

Fans of rock, pop and electronic music are equally spoiled for choice. The Grand Social is one of the best-known venues in town, hosting gigs but also comedy and sports events for example. Another favourite is The Workmans Club, also hosting a wide variety of shows and events and clubs. It has several different spaces, some of them decorated in fun colourful ways. 

Food 

The food scene in Dublin has come a long way from the times of fish and chips and full Irish breakfasts. The city now has six Michelin star restaurants – one of them Chapter One led by the Finnish chef Mickael Viljanen. The restaurant combines local ingredients with French techniques and lots of creativity – and it has been receiving rave reviews from critics. If you want a more classical fine dining experience Patrick Guilbaud serves luxurious dishes featuring ingredients such as lobster and Irish beef. 

Dublin will not let you down even if you are travelling with a tight budget. For breakfast, brunch or lunch try Tang, it serves reasonably priced but sustainable and very delicious dishes. You could have some buckwheat pancakes or a middle eastern salad, for example. For a cheap and cheerful dinner, head to El Grito, one of best taco places in Ireland. 

A culinary experience you should not miss in Dublin, is an afternoon tea, since they are spectacular. Atrium Lounge in The Westin hotel serves one of the most glamorous ones, in a gorgeous room with a glass ceiling. The sandwiches, scones and cakes are traditional and perfectly executed. For something a bit more casual try The Cake Cafe, where freshly baked bread, prosecco, and miniature cakes make for a perfect combination. 

Literature 

Literature might not seem like the obvious reason to travel to a city, but if you are a book lover Dublin should be your first choice. The city is one of UNESCOs designated cities of literature and the city has four Nobel Prize Laureates for Literature. 

Trinity College Library is one of the major draws for any literary enthusiast. Founded in 1592 it is the oldest library in Ireland, and it might very well be the most beautiful library in the world. Its Long Room with oak shelves is like something out of a fairytale - or as many say Harry Potter. The library has over 200 000 books, with many very rarities. 

Dublin is also a city of bookshops. The largest independent bookshop in Ireland is Chapters, selling both new and vintage copies, as well as gift items and paper goods, over two huge floors. If the atmosphere of the shop is your priority, you must go to Winding Stair. It is both the oldest of Dublin's bookshops, also the quaintest. In addition, the shop hosts lots of readings and other events, and there is even a fantastic restaurant adjacent to it.